The judge upheld three sections of Act 1, also called the 'Talent Act', which make it tougher for teachers to get tenure and did away with teacher pay scales, instead directing teacher pay be based off "effectiveness" in the classroom.

"Today's ruling is a victory for students and teachers," Gov. Jindal said in an emailed statement. "This ruling upholds the core purpose of the law - rewarding effective teachers and supporting ineffective teachers who want to improve."

Judge Michael Caldwell did rule Section 1 of the act, which affects the authority of school boards, was unconstitional. Caldwell said that portion of the act didn't fit into the bill's stated goal.

"As a result of this landmark legislation, school boards statewide have made bold changes to their layoff and compensation policies that will keep good teachers in the classroom," said state Superintendent of Education John White. "We await the specifics of the ruling, and we encourage all districts to maintain the reforms they have put in place."

The Louisiana Federation of Teachers originally filed suit against the act. They said they planned to appeal.

News 2's Mike Steele will have reaction from the courthouse tonight on News 2.